Google, Meta and TikTok have filed separate lawsuits against California, seeking to stop the state from enforcing a new law restricting certain social media features for users under 16. The companies argue that the legislation interferes with free speech and gives the government too much control over how online content is presented.
The law, known as Assembly Bill 1709, Governor Gavin Newsom signed on September 10. It prohibits social media platforms from offering children under 16 features considered psychologically exploitative and capable of encouraging compulsive use.
These restrictions include personalized content recommendations and autoplay features that automatically play the next video. The legislation also requires platforms to delete children's accounts using the restricted features.
In their separate complaints, the three companies argue that California is attempting to dictate how platforms organize and recommend content to users. Meta, which owns Facebook and Instagram, says the law violates its First Amendment rights by restricting its editorial decisions about how it curates and displays third-party content.
Google, which owns YouTube, and TikTok have raised similar constitutional arguments. The companies also contend the legislation conflicts with Section 230 of the Communications Decency Act, which generally protects online platforms from liability for user-posted content.
Google filed its lawsuit in San Jose, Meta in San Francisco, and TikTok in Los Angeles. California Attorney General Rob Bonta's office had not immediately responded to requests for comment.
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Newsom has defended the legislation, arguing that protecting children should remain a priority as technology becomes more influential in their lives. However, the law has also attracted criticism from digital rights groups. The Electronic Frontier Foundation warned that the restrictions could create privacy and free speech concerns.
The legal challenge comes as social media companies face growing scrutiny over their impact on young users. Meta and other platforms are already dealing with thousands of lawsuits alleging that their services contributed to mental health problems among children and teenagers. The outcome could influence how other US states approach social media regulation.